What interincisor distance suggests a potential difficult intubation?

An interincisor distance of 3 cm suggests a potential difficult intubation. The interincisor distance is measured as the distance between the upper and lower incisors when the mouth is fully opened. A smaller interincisor distance can indicate limited mouth opening, which may complicate the visualization and access to the airway during intubation.

In general, an interincisor distance of less than 4-5 cm is often associated with an increased risk of difficult intubation, as it may indicate anatomical variations or restrictions that could hinder the ability to maneuver the laryngoscope and endotracheal tube into the trachea effectively. A measurement of 5 cm and above typically suggests a more favorable airway assessment, while 3 cm signifies a greater concern for potential intubation challenges.